St Mungo’s… Open All Hours

On Thursday gone, I had the pleasure of being invited to speak at the London LGBT Focus Group of St Mungo’sthe homeless charity that’s been helping people since 1969.

It was my second guest speaking invite of 2012, having spoken earlier this year at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation’s Being Me Eventin Manchester.

I was really inspired during my talk, not just by those LGBT staff members whom attended but the vital work St Mungo’s does in helping those who are on the streets, trying to get off them or recently have with accommodation provided by the charity.

I learned a few more things about homelessness from my invite to St Mungo’s

  • People who live on the streets are not necessarily suffering, this being a disempowering word
  • Many on Britain’s streets are there as a consequence of ‘coming out’ to their parent(s), having been rejected
  • A high percentage of those on the streets suffer with a mental illness, like depression.

Not only is the LGBT Focus Group at St Mungo’s there to support LGBT staff, but clearly helps to raise the awareness of some of the reasons for homelessness like homophobia and removing the stigma of mental health. A truly inspirational group.

St Mungo’s represents a lot that is close to my heart, and I intend to support the organisation wherever I can.

Finally, the charity is holding an event in a couple of months to help raise vital funds for homeless people in the UK so join in…

Woolly Hat Day – Friday 26 October 2012

Find out more at: www.mungos.org/woollyhatday_2012

This has been a… learned something new, ‘View from the Bottom’.

Take care, Max x.

Live Healthy, Laugh Often & Love Yourself!

Published by My Mum. Copyright © Kevin Maxwell Film, Media & Performance 2012.